What is the difference between Hashimoto’s disease and hypothyroidism?

Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism are related but distinct conditions. Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland, while hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormones.

Hashimoto's disease is characterized by inflammation and damage to the thyroid gland, which leads to a decrease in thyroid hormone production. This decrease in thyroid hormone production is called hypothyroidism. Hashimoto's disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism.

Symptoms of Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism are similar and may include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, muscle weakness, joint and muscle pain, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, depression, and an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter).

Hashimoto's disease is typically diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, physical examination, and sometimes imaging tests. The most common blood tests used to diagnose Hashimoto's disease include the TSH test, the TPO antibodies test, and the thyroglobulin antibodies test.

Hypothyroidism can be caused by other conditions as well, such as congenital hypothyroidism, radiation treatment, surgery, and certain medications.

Treatment for both Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism is hormone replacement therapy, which replaces the thyroid hormone that the body is not producing enough of. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the right treatment plan and to monitor the condition regularly.